AFMC Commander's Log -- Happy Holidays!

  • Published
  • By Gen. Donald Hoffman
  • Air Force Materiel Command commander
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  AFMC Warriors,

As the holidays draw near and the year winds down, we have an opportunity to reflect on the past 12 months and think ahead about what's to come. My first thought as I review 2011 is a resounding "thank you" to our team of more than 85,000 hardworking Airmen--military and civilian--for your service, excellence and "can-do" attitude. You make a difference. We have seen many successes this year across all of our mission areas.

In January, the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center reached full operational capability, demonstrating the Center's ability to help ensure our nuclear weapons are safe, secure and effective. In March, Air Force senior leaders personally congratulated the team responsible for the source selection of the new KC-46A tanker--the Air Force's top acquisition priority. In August, the KC-135 Stratotanker Programmed Depot Maintenance Team at Tinker Air Force Base was recognized by the Department of Defense for outstanding achievements in weapon system and military equipment maintenance. Throughout the year, the Aircraft Group at Robins Air Force Base produced 30 C-17s on time or ahead of schedule. The Missile Maintenance Group at Hill Air Force Base reached 116% of their Propulsion System Rocket Engine goals with 100% on-time delivery. Next year, the three depots are projected to produce as much as five depots produced in the late 1990s! At Edwards Air Force Base, the test team is putting the Joint Strike Fighter through its paces and is logging more sorties than originally planned to ensure this fighter is ready to enter the operational Air Force. The Air Force Research Laboratory has too many accomplishments to list, but rapid deployment of technology to the warfighter and certification of our fleets to operate on alternative fuels are both significant.

These accomplishments are representative of many other successes across the Command and are a direct reflection of the contributions each of you make to the AFMC mission. The New Year will bring many changes for AFMC and the Air Force. The Secretary of the Air Force has approved the AFMC plan to reduce overhead staffs by combining today's 12 Centers down to 5. This re-organization will occur during 2012. The Budget Control Act has not been satisfied so the next year will see additional work on how to resolve our Nation's fiscal challenges. We will see portions of this in the FY 13 President's Budget which will unveil additional funding cuts. But no matter what the future holds, I know your dedication and commitment to the mission will remain strong.

During this holiday season, please remember there are some 31,000 Airmen deployed from units across the Air Force; more than 1,300 of those from AFMC. Think of them, but also think about yourselves, as safety never takes a holiday. Winter activities bring increased risks and hazards, so travel and celebrate with care. Sound risk management and thoughtful planning will help ensure a safe season for all.

Jacki and I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a very happy New Year. We are proud to serve with you in the world's most respected air, space and cyberspace force.